Want a Disney World Cast Member Job?
Here’s what you need to know to have a step up from the competition…
As a former Disney World Cast member, I can tell you that getting to be part of the World of Disney depends on where you want to land. Looking to be in entertainment? It’s going to be a tough road ahead. Wanting to be part of Magic Kingdom attractions? Well, that’s much easier. As with any Disney World Cast member job, you need to apply first, and that’s where you make a big impression.
Before You Apply, Scrub Your Social Media
Despite what you hear in the news, Disney doesn’t like surprises, especially on social media. Before you even consider applying or checking out our tips, you need to scrub your social media. Whether you work in Florida at the theme parks, a 3rd party vendor or even the branded ocean liners, you are part of the pack.
Working with millions of people in a Disney World Cast member job means you meet many wonderful folks and a few morons. Those morons look for trouble and one way they do it is a reverse search using your face to find you online. If this isn’t crazy enough, if you have anything questionable, you could be in trouble. That’s why Disney has a whole team of Social sleuths looking over their potential employees.
Stories of people who never made it as a Disney World Cast member or even a college students in the Disney College Program were always heard behind the scenes. One I will never forget is the story of a young employee with a hankering of drinking (on her own time mind you) posted social media photos of her getting a little drunk with friends after shift. Beer bottles, smoking (unsure what kind) and the part of the night was posted on Instagram. Life went on and she came to work. Mid-shift, she was called to the back and let go. While one could debate the code of conduct on this, you sign up for being helpful of guests and your life outside of the kingdom needs to mirror this (within reason.) So you need to be ready for peering eyes!
So once your social media is ready, start your journey as you go forward with a Disney World Cast member job application.
- Research the Disney World role you’re interested in: Familiarize yourself with the different types of roles available at Disney World and check out the different properties. You might be surprised at the thousands of jobs available year round, seasonal and even for special event. Choose one that aligns with your skills and interests.
- Apply early: Start your job search well ahead of time, as positions at Disney World can fill up quickly. That’s why you need to pick two or three positions, preferably similar in nature to focus on. Most of the time the theme park jobs fill quickly, but jobs on property are also good options to consider.
- Create a strong resume and cover letter: Make sure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant experience and skills and emphasize why you’re a good fit for the role you’re applying for. They will want references so provide the business and personal recommendations up front. You will save time and your application won’t be delayed for not offering them in the first place.
- Prepare for the interview: Research common interview questions and practice your answers. Ask fellow friends or on forums if they have any advice on what to say or not to say. Be sure to emphasize your customer service skills, as this is a key part of the Disney World experience. It’s important to remember guest service is the only focus. Don’t go too crazy on Disney characters either. Remember hosting guests is a skill, no matter where you decide to apply at the theme park.
- Be flexible: Be open to working various shifts and in different areas of the park, as this will increase your chances of being hired. They will ask if you have any upcoming vacations or events. If you tell them you do, you, most likely, will not be hired. They want people who commit to working as the company needs for the first year.
- Show enthusiasm: During the interview, express your love for Disney and why you would like to be a part of the Disney World team. Share with your interviewer how you have taken time to review policies, learn about the business and what good customer service means to the company.
- Be professional: Dress appropriately and arrive on time for your interview. Maintain good eye contact and a positive attitude throughout the interview process. Don’t swear, make rude comments or say anything that could be interpretated as negative, even if you meant it as a joke.
- Highlight your skills: Emphasize any relevant skills or experiences you have, such as language proficiency or experience working in a fast-paced environment. Taking care of Disney World guests means you need to problem solve on your feet. Making the vacation the best in the world takes many Disney World Cast members focused on doing their best.
- Follow up: After the interview, send a thank you note to the interviewer to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the role. Don’t hassle them for an answer. It’s a process that takes time and you will be
Wanna hear on a few Disney World Cast member job fails? They guy who didn’t wash his hair before coming on the interview. The woman who worn a mini skirt to the office for an application. And my favorite, the new guy in the parking lot that parked in the reserved area and got a ticket on his way to his first day (which on Disney property is an automatic dismissal.)
In Conclusion
If you are serious about applying for a Disney World Cast member job, you need to consider how you plan to be noticed at the Disney Company. It’s a great company to work for as they offer what many people think are amazing benefits along with nice Florida weather.
Note: These tips are general guidelines and may not guarantee employment at Disney World. However, following these tips can increase your chances of landing a job as a Disney World Cast Member. We are not part of the Walt Disney World Company nor have any idea how your process might be as each person is individual. That being said we hope you find your dream job at what many people call the most magical place on earth.